Imagine stumbling upon a field dotted with massive stones, silent sentinels of a forgotten era. This is Stanton Drew, a Neolithic marvel nestled in the heart of Somerset, England. Older than Stonehenge yet surprisingly little-known, it boasts the third-largest stone circle complex in the country, a testament to the ingenuity and spiritual beliefs of our prehistoric ancestors. Join us as we delve into the secrets of this ancient site, exploring its enigmatic circles, avenues, and the curious “Cove,” all whispering tales of a time long past.
Dominating the landscape is the Great Circle, a colossal ring of stones spanning an impressive 370 feet in diameter. Larger than Stonehenge’s inner circle and second only to Avebury in size, it’s a feat of Neolithic engineering that continues to astound. Originally comprised of approximately 30 stones, 26 remain standing today, like weathered giants guarding the secrets of the past. What ceremonies unfolded within this enormous ring? Was it a gathering place for rituals, a site for astronomical observations, or perhaps both? The stones remain silent, their purpose shrouded in mystery.
Beyond the Circle: Exploring the Complex
Stanton Drew is more than just one grand circle. Two smaller stone circles, the North-East and South-West circles, lie nearby, almost like echoes of the Great Circle. Their purpose remains uncertain, adding further intrigue to the site. Were they used for separate rituals? Did they hold a distinct significance within the larger complex? Connecting these circles are the faint remnants of avenues, pathways that may have guided processions or marked specific routes within the sacred space. And then there’s the Cove, a small, intimate arrangement of three stones tucked away in the garden of The Druid’s Arms pub (postcode BS39 4EJ). Some archaeologists believe this may be the remnants of a portal tomb, a type of burial chamber, suggesting rituals related to the afterlife. Further afield lies Hautville’s Quoit, a massive fallen stone whose connection to the main complex remains a puzzle. Was it once part of a larger, now lost, arrangement? Did it hold a special symbolic meaning? Each element of Stanton Drew, from the grand circles to the smallest stones, contributes to the site’s enigmatic nature.
Whispers of the Past: Unraveling the Meaning
What did Stanton Drew mean to the people who built it some 4,500 years ago, in the late Neolithic period? The answer, unfortunately, remains elusive. Archaeological evidence suggests the site was likely used for ceremonial purposes, possibly related to astronomical observations, seasonal cycles, or ancestor worship. The alignment of the stones may hold clues, but their original placement is uncertain due to the passage of time and potential disturbances over the millennia. Adding to the intrigue are local legends, passed down through generations. Tales speak of a petrified wedding party, forever frozen in stone, and giants dancing in the fields, their massive feet creating the impressions we see today as the stone circles. While fanciful, these stories reflect the enduring power of place and the human need to explain the unexplainable. Delve into the captivating world of local happenings with the latest Sherborne news and views for further context on the region’s rich history.
Archaeology’s Ongoing Quest
Archaeologists continue to probe the secrets of Stanton Drew, utilizing modern techniques like geophysical surveys to peer beneath the surface without disturbing the ancient stones. These surveys have revealed hidden features and potential structures, suggesting that much more remains to be discovered. Ongoing research may one day provide more definitive answers, but for now, the true purpose of Stanton Drew remains shrouded in mystery.
Visiting Stanton Drew: A Journey Through Time
Stanton Drew is remarkably accessible, offering a unique opportunity to connect with the distant past. The Great Circle and the smaller circles are located in open fields, free to visit year-round. The Cove, nestled in the garden of The Druid’s Arms pub, offers a unique opportunity to combine history with a refreshing stop. A visit to Stanton Drew is a journey through time, a chance to witness the breathtaking artistry of Suda painting elephant as well, if your journey allows. Let the stones whisper their secrets to you, and perhaps you’ll catch a glimpse of the ancient world they represent.
How Old is Stanton Drew Stone Circle?
Stanton Drew’s age, estimated to be around 4,500 years old, places it firmly in the late Neolithic period (approximately 2500 BC), a time of significant societal transformation in Britain. This makes it older than the pyramids of Egypt and significantly older than Stonehenge. The scale of the Great Circle, 371 feet in diameter, showcases the Neolithic inhabitants’ remarkable ingenuity and organizational skills, given they lacked modern tools.
What Does Stanton Drew Mean?
The meaning of Stanton Drew remains an enigma. The Great Circle, with its 26 surviving megaliths (likely from an original 30), may have served as a central gathering place, potentially for ceremonies, astronomical observations, or both. The smaller circles, connected by what might have been processional avenues, hint at a complex, interconnected ritual landscape. The Cove, perhaps a portal tomb, introduces the possibility of burial rites and beliefs about the afterlife. Hautville’s Quoit, a large, isolated stone, adds another layer of mystery, leaving its role within the complex open to speculation.
Is Stanton Drew Houses England’s Third Largest Prehistoric Standing Stone Collection?
Stanton Drew is not a collection of houses but rather the third largest stone circle complex in England. While it doesn’t have the highest number of individual standing stones, its significance lies in the size and complexity of its layout, featuring the Great Circle, two smaller circles, avenues, and the Cove. The Great Circle’s immense diameter of 371 feet alone makes it a remarkable prehistoric achievement.
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